Thailand is a tropical country, and predominantly witnesses a lot of sunshine and rain. While the summer season is hot, humid, and great to get a tan, the monsoon brings the country’s landscapes and animal and plant lives alive, and the pleasant winter is buzzing with tourists in every corner.
Although August to November is the rainfall season in Thailand, light showers in May, June, and July are quite common. However, don’t expect the rain to hamper your holiday, as you can easily enjoy the transition months with full rivers, green valleys, and mountains as well as a good mix of sun and rain.
The month of July sees the summer moving into the monsoon, with some areas experiencing more rainfall than others. It’s best to explore the inland areas during this time, but you can also visit certain dry islands to relish Thailand’s culture and beauty. Here’s a comprehensive guide of everything you can experience in Thailand in the month of July.
July marks the month of the monsoon setting in, with steady showers across the country. The weather is cool yet humid, with temperatures averaging about 28 degrees.
As the month progresses, rainfall increases in certain parts, especially since August and September are the main monsoon months. On the few days that it doesn’t rain, the landscape is lush green and thriving, and you can enjoy a great adrenaline-inducing trek or visit one of the gushing waterfalls.
Bangkok
Minimum temperature: 25-33 degrees C
Average rainfall: 161mm, 17 rainy days
Chiang Mai
Minimum temperature: 24-32 degrees C
Average rainfall: 158mm, 19 rainy days
Hua Hin
Minimum temperature: 25-33 degrees C
Average rainfall: 100mm, 16 rainy days
Koh Samui
Minimum temperature: 25-32 degrees C
Average rainfall: 123mm, 14 rainy days
Phuket
Minimum temperature: 25-31 degrees C
Average rainfall: 289mm, 20 rainy days
Beach lovers may have a few hours of sunshine, with a fair bit of wind and choppy waters. Avoid venturing into the water, except around certain southeast islands.
The southeast part of the country is usually the driest, including small towns and select islands. If you’re a beach bum, the lower Gulf islands are relatively dry, but always keep an eye out for the red warning flags that prohibit swimming at certain times of the day.
Hua Hin
Hua Hin is quite centrally located, so it sits among the places receiving the lowest rainfall in Thailand. The weather remains quite pleasant this month, giving you a chance to explore its shoreline, and a multitude of culinary escapades. Although it isn’t a very popular tourist destination, it does bring you a tad closer to the local culture, heritage, history, and lifestyle.
Things to do: Grab dinner at Hua Hin Night Market, trek up to the top of Khao Takiab mountain, explore Phraya Nakhon Cave, shop till you drop at Cicada Market
Koh Samui
The temperatures remains at a marginally comfortable 29 degrees in Koh Samui in July, and short bursts of afternoon rain are quite common. There really is nothing that can ‘dampen’ your spirits here, as there’s enough sunshine for you to lounge on the beach for as long as you want.
July is a great month for families to visit Koh Samui, as the island offers little something for everyone. It’s one of the most popular islands in the country, and offers a mix of great accommodation, eateries, beach clubs, spas and of course, beaches.
Things to do: Take a day trip to Koh Ang Thong National Park, try water sports like kite surfing and diving, visit the Namuang Waterfall.
Koh Pha Ngan
Koh Pha Ngan is quite a busy island all year round, and is pretty wet in July. However, since the nightlife here is very popular, the rain doesn’t stop party-goers from heading to the island in large numbers. No island in Thailand holds a party like Koh Pha Ngan.
As per the Thai lunar calendar, full moon and half moon parties are all the rage here. You may have to careful with dirt tracks if you’re getting around on a scooter, but other than that, the island is a breeze.
Things to do: Attend a full moon party, eat local delicacies at the Thong Sala Night Market.
Koh Tao
The sun shines brightly over Koh Tao in July, bringing with it an abundance of tanning and water sports opportunities. July is bang in the middle of the busy diving season in Koh Tao, which is known for its colourful marine life.
It’s been christened the most popular island for diving in Thailand, and except in the case of extreme weather conditions, diving takes place throughout the year. All you have to do is sign up at a local diving school and jump right in.
Other than diving, the island also offers a healthy dose of trekking and hiking trails, live music, and performances, busy beach clubs and striking views.
Things to do: Make a short visit to the viewpoint on Koh Nang Yuan island, swim on Sairee Beach, hike to Chalok from Mae Haad.
Koh Samet
A majority of tourists head to Koh Samet just to relax and lounge on the beach. It’s a laid-back island with not a lot to do, but a ton of beaches to suit your fancy. All the activities are also shoreline-focused; hotels, night clubs, spas and restaurants are all spread out the beach. Even in the peak monsoon, Koh Samet receives very little rainfall, so July is a great month for you to sit back and watch the sun set over the horizon.
Things to do: Spot wildlife at Khao Laem Ya National Park, try water sports at any beach, relax on the brilliant white sand of Haad Sai Kaew
Asanha Bucha
This holy festival is based on the Lunar calendar, but is usually held in July or August. A beautiful ceremony or puja is held at large temples, where all the monks gather to be ordained on this auspicious day. Peaceful candle-lit processions are held in different parts of the country, and donations in the form of food and candles are made to local temples.
Wan Khao Phansa
The day after Sancha Bucha marks the start of Wan Khao Phansa, a three-month long Buddhist period of Lent, when monks retreat to temples to study and meditate. It is also a sign of the start of the monsoon season, and celebrated with a lot of pomp and ceremony, with candle processions and boat ceremonies.
- Prepare for the monsoon with an umbrella for walks on the beach, or a raincoat while riding around. If needed, carry a light jacket.
- For footwear, carry walking shoes or boots for treks and walks in the rain, and belted sandals or flip-flops for the beach.
- Bring along sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses for those warm afternoons.
- Carry insect and mosquito repellent to fight off bugs that come out in the evenings.
- Remember to bring waterproof phone and camera cases, so you don’t miss out on capturing your memories.
If you are looking for an enjoyable holiday with minimal hindrances, it is best to keep certain things in mind.
- The weather in Bali has become unreliable over the last few years, so it’s best to be prepared by packing all your essentials. Carry an umbrella or raincoat whenever you step out, and check the weather forecast before booking any outdoor activities or water sports.
- Activity and travel rate scams are rampant here. Confirm all rates for taxis and adventure sports before paying up.
- Eating at street stalls is quite common here, but don’t just stop anywhere for a meal, especially in the monsoon. Ask around for recommendations, or eat at sit-down restaurants for large meals. Avoid eating raw food.
- Consume bottled water only. Do not drink from the tap.
